Cruise ship : Discover Toamasina during your Cruise Stopover
Excursion around Toamasina during your stopover of your cruise ship
Explore the tourist sites in the city of Toamasina and its surroundings during your stopover.
Toamasina is Madagascar’s second-largest city and a major port, located east of the capital, Antananarivo. Facing the Indian Ocean, the city is rich in heritage, culture, and history. It is an emblematic region with great tourism potential, especially for nature enthusiasts.
Must-visit sites around Toamasina:
Let's visit Ivoloina Park : during the stopover of Cruise ship in Toamasina
Ivoloina Park is located just 12 km from the port, including 8 km of paved road and 4 km of dirt track. Moreover, it serves as an important center for environmental research and education, managed by the Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group.
At the heart of Ivoloina, you will find a fascinating zoological park where visitors can observe many animal species endemic to Madagascar. In fact, the park spans 4 hectares within a 282-hectare forest reserve, offering an exceptional opportunity to explore Madagascar’s biodiversity.
Here, you can encounter 13 species of lemurs, the famous radiated tortoises (sokatra) found only in Madagascar, as well as a variety of snakes and chameleons. Therefore, whether you are passionate about wildlife or simply a nature lover, Ivoloina is the ideal destination to experience the richness of Madagascar’s fauna and flora.
Discover Tapakala – Pangalanes Canal Toamasina (Fisherman Village): Cruise ship
Tapakala, also known as Ambodisaina, is located just 10 km along the Pangalanes Canal. This excursion is perfect for travelers who wish to discover the true identity of the Malagasy people living along the east coast.
During the visit, you will not only learn about the village’s rich history, but also meet its friendly and welcoming population. Indeed, Tapakala is a traditional fishing village nestled between the ocean and the canal, where fishing provides the main source of income for nearly 80% of its residents.
As you explore, you will have the chance to observe their daily life, deeply shaped by tradition and the sea. Moreover,every encounter reflects the strong cultural values of the Betsimisaraka people.
In short, this is a unique and authentic experience, offering insights into a way of life rarely found in Western societies. So, immerse yourself, discover, and explore!
Anjavidy Garden
Anjavidy is a plant that naturally grows along the banks of the Pangalanes Canal and provides many benefits to the local population. In fact, in the heart of the canal, amidst these lush plantations, a local entrepreneur has created the charming Anjavidy Garden.
During your visit, you will find an ideal spot to swim, experience local life, and, if time permits, enjoy a delicious lunch on-site. Moreover, the manager prepares authentic Malagasy dishes made with fresh local products, allowing youto truly taste the region.
Therefore, this excursion is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Furthermore, it provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and local culture.
Finally, if you are interested, please feel free to contact us and let us help you create a memorable experience at Anjavidy Garden.
Agro-Camping: Tropical Fruit Garden: do not miss it during the stopover of cruise ship in Toamasina
Would you like to taste tropical or seasonal fruits? Agro-Camping Ampasinambo welcomes you! Located 25 km south of Toamasina along the famous National Road No. 2, this site allows you to discover a wide variety of tropical fruits and enjoy them on the spot.
You can also visit the plantations, take a short hike ending at a waterfall, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Even before entering, you will be impressed by the magnificent palm plantation, covering over 3,000 hectares. This palm field produces palm oil and also manufactures soaps, including the famous Tropical soap.
Ile aux Prunes (Plum Island)
Ile aux Prunes is a small islet located 17 km from the port of Toamasina, accessible by small motorboat. Surrounded by a coral reef and covered with halophytic plants adapted to salty water, it offers a unique natural environment.
For aquatic nature lovers, this is the perfect spot, especially for snorkeling. However, while many visitors wish to fishhere, it is important to note that it is not a suitable fishing site: at low tide, the water recedes, and at high tide, it becomes too rough.
Recommended activities include visiting the lighthouse—the tallest in Africa—snorkeling, and swimming at high tide. Moreover, from the top of the lighthouse, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding seascape.
Finally, for your safety, please note that if the wind exceeds 15 km/h, access to the islet is not possible.
Palmarium: the best place to visit during the cruise ship in Toamasina
If your boat stays at the port for two days, don’t miss the chance to visit Palmarium, a true gem on Madagascar’s east coast. Located in Ankanin’ny Nofy, the “Nest of Dreams”, just 60 km south of the river port, Palmarium is a unique reserve where nature and endemic wildlife are right at your fingertips.
You will encounter numerous lemurs, some curious and friendly, who may even jump onto your shoulders. Palmarium is also the ideal place to observe nocturnal lemurs, called Aye-Aye, during an unforgettable overnight stay.
The journey from the port takes approximately 2 hours each way, and the road itself offers spectacular scenery. You can also relax and swim in the calm, clear waters of Lake Ampitabe.
At Palmarium, discovery goes beyond animals: you will have the chance to visit charming villages, meet the local population, and immerse yourself in the traditional life of the region. An unforgettable experience for nature, adventure, and culture lovers!